Preston North End legend appointed Bamber Bridge manager
Jamie Milligan left Bamber Bridge after seven years earlier this week.
Paul McKenna has been appointed the new manager of local non-league side Bamber Bridge.
Chorley-born McKenna made 476 appearances for Preston North End during 13 years after coming up through the youth ranks. That puts him fourth in the all team appearance list at Deepdale.
He has experience in coaching since hanging up the boots in 2015, including alongside fellow Preston great, Lee Ashcroft, at Longridge Town, and is a UEFA A Licence qualified coach.
The 49-year-old briefly played for Bamber Bridge towards the end of his career and has returned to Irongate as manager following the departure of long-serving boss Jamie Milligan.
Coaches Neil Crowe, Mick Taylor and Stuart Barton will be remaining with the club as McKenna’s coaching staff, “ensuring valuable continuity, stability and experience within the management team as Paul begins his new role,” the club said.
“Paul now takes the next step in his football journey as he embarks on his first senior First Team Managerial appointment. His knowledge of the game, leadership qualities and existing connection with Bamber Bridge make him an exciting appointment as the club looks to build for the future.
“Everyone at Bamber Bridge Football Club would like to welcome Paul to his new position and wish him every success as we begin this exciting new chapter together.”
McKenna’s first game in charge comes this Saturday away at Gainsborough Trinity.
Why Jamie Milligan left Bamber Bridge
Milligan had served as Bamber Bridges’ manager for seven years and enjoyed great success, achieving the club’s highest league finish since the 1990s in the 2022-23 campaign. However, on October 22, it was announced he had made the decision to leave the club.
Despite boasting the likes of Tom Barkhuizen and Andrew Teague in their side, it’s been a tough start to the campaign for Brig, who sit second bottom of the Northern Premier League with just 10 points to their name after 14 games. They haven’t won a match since a 1-0 victory over Alfreton Town on September 12.
Taking to social media, Milligan explained why he opted to leave the club. He said: “I leave the club with my head held high; from being on the cusp of the National League North after a playoff final appearance, a cup final appearance, seeing the club through COVID, and proudly seeing players move on up the pyramid, it’s been a great run.
“Sadly I feel as if I’ve taken the club as far as it can go, with the budget I’ve been given we’ve always been able to punch above our weight, but with this season with disappointing results, I feel like my time has run its course.”
Bamber Bridge statement on Jamie Milligan departure
Brig said in a statement: "Bamber Bridge Football Club can confirm that Jamie Milligan has decided to step down from his position as First Team Manager.
"After careful consideration, Jamie feels he has taken the club as far as he can and believes that now is the right time to step aside.
"Jamie has been at the helm since December 2019, dedicating almost seven years to managing the First Team and giving his all to the football club throughout that time.
"His association with Bamber Bridge stretches back much further, having proudly represented the Brig as a player, coach and manager.
"Jamie was part of the memorable 2017/18 promotion-winning side and scored the opening goal in our famous 2-1 victory over Grantham Town in the 2017 League Cup Final.
"One of Jamie’s most notable achievements as manager came during the 2022/23 season, when he guided Bamber Bridge to an outstanding third-place finish in the Northern Premier League Premier Division, the club’s highest league position since the 1990s. That remarkable campaign saw Brig reach the play-off final, narrowly missing out on promotion following a defeat to Warrington Town.
"Throughout his years at Irongate, Jamie has shown tremendous loyalty, passion and commitment to Bamber Bridge Football Club. His contribution, both on and off the pitch, has been significant, and his dedication to the club and its supporters will never be forgotten.
"The club fully respects Jamie’s decision and would like to place on record its sincere gratitude for everything he has given to Bamber Bridge over so many years.
"Jamie will always be part of the Bamber Bridge family, and the door at Irongate will always be open to him.
“We wish Jamie and his family every success, happiness and all the very best for the future.
“Thank you for everything, Jamie."